Photo Collage Tricks

Create a photo collage to show off your precious pictures.

Show off your favorite pictures by creating a photo collage. You can glue the selected photos on canvas by hand, or compose the collage digitally on your computer with appropriate photo editing software. Achieve different results by varying picture size, location within the collage and special effects. Print out as many copies of the completed collage as you like from your computer, or enjoy the unique master piece that you created by hand.

Size

Vary the size of each picture with the most important one being the largest to make it stand out, suggests Adobe Photoshop expert Helen Bradley in "Secrets to Creating Compelling Photo Collages." Crop photos, re-size them digitally, or print different sizes prior to arranging them in the collage.

Repetition

Repeat certain images and other elements to re-enforce your chosen theme, but avoid even numbers of the same item, recommends Bradley. For example, use the same photo three times rather than twice in the collage.

Overlapping

Create a sense of dynamic motion by overlapping images. Smooth out any sharp borders or edges by blending the layers, according to OrderArtWork.com. Choose a color that most closely matches the background of both overlapping photos and apply it where needed or use a digital eraser tool.

Direction

Arrange photos facing into the collage rather than out so the viewer's focus remains on your work instead of wandering off, explains Bradley. For example, place a photo of a person looking up in the bottom area of the collage rather than in the upper portion.

References

• AdobePress: "Secrets to Creating Compelling Photo Collages"; Helen Bradley; January 2006
• OrderArtWork: Artistic Photo Collages, Digital Picture Image Photomontage